Obituaries

Eugene Douglas Claybrook, 96, of Lynchburg, VA passed away November 13, 2023 at his home in Lynchburg, VA. Born October 8, 1927, in Aspen, VA, he was the son of the late Richard Baxter Claybrook and the late Fannie Maude Palmer Claybrook. He is survived by his daughter, Cyndi Riley and husband Jeff of Lynchburg, two granddaughters, Taylor Riley Bilodeau (Jordan) and Paige Elizabeth Riley and one great grandson, Carter Oakes Bilodeau all of Charlotte, NC. He was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Rachel Holt Claybrook and son Barry Eugene Claybrook. He is remembered and loved by many extended family and loyal/devoted lifetime friends. Gene graduated from Randolph Henry High School in 1946 and worked on the family farm until he was drafted into the Korean War in 1950. He served two years in the Army as a Sargent First Class and surgical technician. After an honorable discharge in 1952, he returned home to assist with the family farm along with selling insurance. In 1957, he began a long career at Babcock and Wilcox as a nuclear technician quickly moving into various management roles until his retirement in 1992. Due to his love of the outdoors, he embarked upon a part-time job at Ivy Hill Golf Club as part of the grounds crew in 1993. At 65 years old, he took up the sport of golf! He enjoyed his tenure at the golf course until macular degeneration robbed him of his eye sight and driving, thus he retired once again in 1998. Gene was an avid outdoorsman. He enjoyed deer and bird hunting in the winter and fishing for stripers (Rockfish) in the spring, which earned him the nickname ROCK to those that accompanied him on his fishing excursions. He had many interests including politics, finance, all current events, news of any sort, reading, playing guitar, horseshoes, or visiting with family and friends reminiscing and telling jokes of the “good ole days”. Gene was a lifetime member of Staunton River Baptist Church where he taught the men’s bible class for 30 years and served as a deacon as long as his eyesight allowed him to make the drive to Aspen. He was also a 25 year member of the Mackey Masonic Lodge 69. Celebrating his 96th birthday was a proud moment, which made him the all-time oldest living member of the Claybrook family. As the pillar of the family and due to his extensive knowledge base, many looked to him for advice whether it be mechanical, structural, nature, money, work or just life’s issues. Known by his peers as a sincere and very considerate Virginia Gentleman which defined him as someone who led and behaved with courtesy toward all, regardless of social status. While not assumed to be personally flawless, he demonstrated fortitude, temperance, prudence and justice. His personal honor to all was clearly evident. Dedication was a true virtue whether it be to his God and church, family, country, employer, friends or nature. He had a unique ability to resolve small problems long before they became serious issues whether they were personal, professional, or technical. Along with his common sense approach to life, he was always positive, exhibited great strength, tenacity, humility and perseverance…….that is what made him such a special man…..One in a Million. Gene’s greatest wish later in years was to remain in his home of over 66 years. The family is grateful and indebted to his excellent caregivers led by Melissa Anderson and her team: Sarah Anderson, Maggi Adkins, Natasha Feliciano, Madison Anderson, Wendy Wesley, Rylee Chapman, Daphne Davis and Barbara Dalton. A special thank you to Gene Ayers for his years of friendship and assistance, to Centra Hospice nurse, Becky Goodyear, for her guidance during this most difficult journey and to many friends for their calls and visits. Gene enjoyed the city life but it was the small rural community of Aspen, VA that he endeared. His eternal days will be spent at his beloved church in a beautiful, tranquil & peaceful setting surrounded by his beloved family; therefore, a service will be held Thursday, November 16, 2023 at 11 am at Staunton River Baptist Church in Brookneal, VA. The family will receive visitors at 10 am prior to the service. Those wishing to make contributions are asked to consider Staunton River Baptist Church, 1742 Wickliffe Road, Brookneal, VA 24528 or a charity of your choice. Henderson Funeral Home in Brookneal is assisting the family.